Birding At the Site
While driving along Thornton Rd, look at the fields to the east for Cattle Egrets, Long-billed Curlews, Whimbrels, Black-bellied Plovers, and other shorebirds. Be sure to check overhead for hawks. In the winter, Ferruginous Hawks are occasionally seen on the ground along Thornton Rd, approximately 1 mile south of the turn-off to the plant. Red-tailed Hawks are often found on the telephone poles along the route to the plant. Turning into the plant takes you along the east side of the ponds. Check the fenced-in grassy area for House Finches and Brown-headed Cowbirds. An American Kestrel is often seen sitting on the post just north of the ponds feasting on an unlucky passerine.

Visitors in the past were able to drive in and use their vehicles as a blind. Since this is no longer an option, proceed on foot carefully to reduce the likelihood of spooking the birds. You will often find domestic ducks here, but look closely along the edges for Spotted Sandpiper, especially in winter. A Red Phalarope was seen here Thanksgiving weekend 1997 and the winter of 1998. The level of water changes in the ponds. Sometimes the large ponds are full, leaving no habitat for shorebirds. When this occurs, be sure to look in the two small ponds at the south end of the complex, as there is often some habitat remaining.

The route you take around the ponds is your choice. Take the route that gives you the best exposure, depending on the angle of the sun. Look for Wilson’s Snipe. Check the field on the west side of the ponds for Cattle Egret in winter, Blue Grosbeak in summer, White-faced Ibis, White-tailed Kite, Red-tailed Hawk, and Merlin in winter. Peregrine Falcon and Bald Eagle have been seen in winter, so keep your eyes peeled. When the swallow flocks form in late summer, check them for an occasional Bank Swallow.